asked the Minister for Social Welfare the plans, if any, he has for an annual provision in the Estimates for the Christmas bonus in view of the fact that this bonus has become standard practice; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Christmas Bonus.
19.
A Christmas bonus has been paid by successive Governments since it was first introduced by me as Minister for Social Welfare in December 1980 and as the Deputy is no doubt aware it has already been paid again this year. It has not been the practice to make provision in the annual Estimates for the bonus and there are no specific proposals to alter a situation which has so far worked satisfactorily.